With Orlin Riggins retired from Dysart Public Works and Shawn Fisher promoted to Superintendent in his place, public works has welcomed Jamie Kane to their staff this past month.

Kane grew up in Troy Mills and studied to be an auctioneer, a field he did for seven years full-time. He and his wife, Tara, live east of Dysart and are familiar with the area. He learned of the position opening and accepted the job in November, attending a city council meeting soon after.

"I'm neighbors with Shawn [Fisher] and I had seen a position was opening up here, so I applied for it," Kane said. "It's something different with a new task everyday and I enjoy being outside. I still do auctioning part-time, but this job is full-time for me. I don't want to be stuck inside all day. I wasn't familiar with city work, but I wanted to make to make this happen."

Kane been working as a Public Works Employee for five weeks now, so far trimming trees, clearing streets, plowed snow, pool work and water testing. More duties will be required during different times of the season and snow is likely on the way for Public Works to prepare for.

"I've enjoyed working with the city so far these last few weeks," Kane said. "I wasn't sure what to expect because I came from a high-paced job as an auctioneer and here it's more laid back. It's a small group of employees and everyone has been pleasant to talk with. Staying busy makes the time go by and I've enjoyed going around town more with this job already."

In his spare, Kane and his wife run and train horses mainly over the summer. Auctioneering still a part of his life as well.

The Public Works Department oversees the street, water, sewer, and electric operations in Dysart They do seasonal work, such as keeping the snow and ice from city streets in winter, maintaining the tree dump, trimming trees to provide safe travel on streets and uninterrupted electrical service, and perform repairs and duties as requested on work orders. They also handle the completion of locating utilities when contacted by One Call. To request a work order call City Hall at 319-476-5690.